How to lay porcelain slabs: complete guide
Whether you’re updating your home or installing flooring for the first time, adding porcelain stoneware is a wonderful way to achieve impressive designs. However, each phase of the installation must be approached carefully. The ideal way to install porcelain slabs is by collaborating with skilled professionals. They have the expertise needed for handling materials like porcelain tile flooring and know which methods yield the best results. Even so, it’s helpful to understand each phase of the process and know what to expect. This guide covers the essential steps for installing porcelain slabs on both floors and walls.
What is the correct procedure for laying large porcelain slabs? Step-by-step guide
Whether you’re installing large living room porcelain tiles or other types of stoneware, following the right steps is key to ensuring long-lasting, smooth surfaces with a perfect finish. As mentioned, professional installers are essential for placing large tiles, as they are trained to cut and fit slabs with exceptional accuracy. Here’s a look at the steps they typically follow.
Procedure and tools
Several tools will be needed to ensure that your porcelain slabs are laid evenly and will not eventually easily shift, from large kitchen porcelain slabs to bathroom tiles and more.
These key items that expert teams would use include:
- A spirit level
- High-quality mortar
- Primer to protect slabs from moisture penetration
- Grout
- Trowel for mortar mixing and application
- Measuring tape
- Spacers to ensure even spacing between tiles
- A bristle brush for slab cleaning
- Gloves, masks, and eye protection
Now, let’s review each step of how to lay porcelain tiles, step-by-step.
Prepare your surface
A solid, well-prepped surface ensures that your slabs remain secure, providing both strength and durability. The substrate preparation varies depending on whether you’re tiling walls or floors and may include using adhesives or special mortars. Installation teams know the ideal base prep for each type of surface.
To start, a sub-base layer is laid, typically composed of tightly packed soft stones or sand.
After this, a full base layer is applied with a mortar thickness of around 15-30 mm. Finally, primer is applied to the porcelain slabs.
Lay the slabs
Where the slabs are placed, and the materials used will dictate the laying process. For instance, with marble-effect stoneware, installers will position slabs so that veins catch the light, emphasizing texture. Joint spacers are used during placement, with about a 3-5 mm gap between tiles. Installers continuously check tile alignment with a spirit level..
In ogni caso è fondamentale che tra una lastra e l’altra vengano posizionati dei giunti di dilatazione, che assorbiranno eventuali movimenti e contrazioni.
Grout the joints
Grouting plays a vital role in creating stable surfaces. Proper application of grout is essential, and once all slabs are in place, installers will use a bristle brush to carefully clear away any excess materials.
Finishing and washing
One of the final steps is cleaning off any glue residue or debris, ensuring that only smooth, pristine surfaces are left. Minor touch-ups may be made during this stage if necessary.
Warnings and advice
Porcelain slabs are incredibly low-maintenance and retain their appeal without extensive care. Spot cleaning with a soft cloth or slightly damp mop is generally sufficient for keeping surfaces pristine.
For outdoor porcelain slab areas, you may use a power washer but be cautious to avoid using excessive pressure that could damage the tiles.
With these steps complete, you’ll be ready to enjoy the beauty and longevity of your finished surfaces.
